Biltmore Estate Reopens with Holiday Spirit After Hurricane Helene, Launches $2 Million Relief Fund for WNC

Asheville -- October 24, 2024: Biltmore Estate: After the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene, the iconic Biltmore Estate 

is set to reopen its doors to the public just in time for the holiday season.

Thanks to the tireless efforts and generosity of countless individuals, recovery is underway across Western North Carolina (WNC), and Biltmore is eager to join in the celebration of resilience and community spirit. The estate will welcome visitors back for its much-anticipated Christmas at Biltmore, beginning on November 2, 2024, marking a return to normalcy and joy after challenging times.

The Biltmore Company has launched a $2 million Biltmore Relief Fund dedicated to providing immediate, localized support to WNC communities. This fund aims to assist employees in crisis, support area non-profits, and invest in the broader recovery of the region, ensuring a brighter future for all.

The Biltmore Relief Fund has already begun distributing support to local non-profits that have been instrumental in the recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. The fund’s primary goals include helping employees impacted by the storm, providing grants to local charities, and aiding in broader community rebuilding efforts. Through partnerships with well-known organizations, the fund is addressing immediate needs and fostering long-term recovery.

Some key initiatives include:

• Assisting with the Historic Collection Removal: Biltmore is helping with the careful removal and temporary storage of historic items from The Cathedral of All Souls, ensuring that these treasures remain safe as repairs are underway.
• Donations of Essential Supplies: Biltmore has provided donations of food to Meals on Wheels, potable water to World Central Kitchen, cold-weather supplies to ABCCM (Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry), and temporary canopies for FEMA sites, which serve as critical support centers during this period.

How You Can Help

Community members and visitors can contribute to the relief efforts in a variety of ways:

• Visit Biltmore During the Holidays: A portion of ticket sales for Christmas at Biltmore will go directly to the Biltmore Relief Fund, making every visitor a part of the community's recovery.
• Donate to Partner Organizations: If you’re looking to make a more direct impact, consider donating to one of the local non-profits that are already receiving support from the relief fund. These include:
  • Always Asheville Fund
  • Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity
  • Asheville Dream Center
  • Concert for Carolina
  • Meals on Wheels of Asheville and Buncombe County
  • Mountain Strong Fund for Business Recovery
  • The Community Foundation of WNC – Emergency and Disaster Response Fund
  • World Central Kitchen

The Biltmore Company has already committed the funds from its relief efforts to these local organizations, ensuring that resources are directed where they are needed most.

Local Resources

For local non-profits seeking grants, the Biltmore Relief Fund encourages organizations to apply through The Community Foundation of WNC. This foundation has been a key player in emergency and disaster response, providing much-needed funding to help rebuild the community.

A Message of Gratitude and Hope

“We are grateful to everyone who has helped make recovery possible,” said Bill Cecil, CEO of The Biltmore Company. “The holiday season is a time for togetherness, joy, and reflection, and we are thrilled to be able to open our doors and share in the spirit of Christmas at Biltmore with our guests. Our relief fund is a testament to the strength of our community, and we are committed to supporting the long-term recovery of WNC.”

The reopening of Biltmore and the launch of the Biltmore Relief Fund are more than just business milestones; they represent the enduring spirit of Western North Carolina. Visitors can once again marvel at the estate’s grandeur while knowing their presence contributes to the broader recovery efforts.

Christmas at Biltmore Returns November 2

Starting November 2, guests can enjoy the magical atmosphere of Christmas at Biltmore, featuring festive decorations, sparkling lights, and seasonal experiences that celebrate the spirit of the holidays. This year, the event will carry extra significance as a symbol of hope and resilience. Whether strolling through the gardens, touring the grand halls, or simply enjoying a warm cup of cider, visitors will find a renewed sense of joy in every corner of the estate.

For more information on how you can contribute, visit Biltmore’s website, or consider donating to one of the partnered local organizations working tirelessly to support those affected by Hurricane Helene. Together, we can make a difference and ensure a brighter future for all in Western North Carolina.